I moved to Chicago from Portland, OR a while back, now aside from Voodoo doughnuts, the best thing about Portland is the ridiculous amount of Mtn biking you can do in the city. Including full on Downhill. In fact my last bike was a 40lb Downhill sled, which I absolutely loved. When I realized that there are no hills in Chicago I was quite disappointed. But I needed a bike, so I was lead to a Remedy 9.8. I have to say that it is probably the best bike I have ever owned, quite an accomplishment considering the list, and that my last 2 were completely custom bikes.
It's light weight (29lb 11oz, with *heavy* pedals and aftermarket brakes, heavier than stock), rides like it weighs far less, the travel adjustment in the front is absolutely fantastic, Pro pedal rocks, the parts kit is almost perfect. I did however change a few parts (brakes, H-Bar). I simply am not a huge fan of Avid brakes, Hope is my personal preference, and the H-bar was a bit narrow for my taste considering what I am using the bike for. The only other bikes I considered were about 800-1200$ more and full custom jobs.
I give it 4 star only because I changed a few parts, and it has a white saddle, seriously who puts a white saddle on a Mtn bike?!